ATI RN
Pharmacology of Drugs Acting on Cardiovascular System PDF Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which assessment data would indicate to the nurse that the patient who is prescribed a benzodiazepine is experiencing a medication side effect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Dizziness. Benzodiazepines commonly cause dizziness as a side effect due to their central nervous system depressant effects. Dizziness can be an indicator of the medication affecting the patient's balance and coordination. Reduced irritability (B) and reduced nervousness (C) are actually intended therapeutic effects of benzodiazepines, not side effects. Physiological dependency (D) is a potential long-term consequence of benzodiazepine use but is not a direct side effect that can be easily assessed. Therefore, dizziness is the most immediate and observable sign of a medication side effect in a patient prescribed a benzodiazepine.
Question 2 of 5
A patient wants to take a ginseng dietary supplement. The nurse instructs the patient to look for which potential adverse effect?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Palpitations and anxiety. Ginseng is known to stimulate the central nervous system, potentially leading to palpitations and anxiety. This is an important adverse effect to watch for when taking ginseng. Incorrect Choices: A: Drowsiness - Ginseng is not typically associated with drowsiness, as it is known for its stimulant properties. C: Dry mouth - Dry mouth is not a common adverse effect of ginseng. D: Constipation - Constipation is not a known adverse effect of ginseng.
Question 3 of 5
A patient is in the intensive care unit because of an acute myocardial infarction. He is experiencing severe ventricular dysrhythmias. The nurse will prepare to give which drug of choice for this dysrhythmia?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: 1. Amiodarone is the drug of choice for severe ventricular dysrhythmias like those seen in acute myocardial infarction. 2. It has potent antiarrhythmic properties and can stabilize the heart's electrical activity. 3. Diltiazem and verapamil are calcium channel blockers used for supraventricular dysrhythmias, not ventricular. 4. Adenosine is used for terminating supraventricular tachycardias, not ventricular dysrhythmias. 5. Choosing amiodarone in this scenario is crucial for managing the life-threatening ventricular dysrhythmias effectively.
Question 4 of 5
A patient has been advised to add a nasal spray (an adrenergic decongestant) to treat a cold. The nurse will include which instruction?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: "Limit use of this spray to 3 to 5 days." Adrenergic decongestants, such as nasal sprays, can lead to rebound congestion if used for an extended period. Limiting the use to 3 to 5 days helps prevent this rebound effect. Other choices are incorrect as: A: "You won’t see effects for at least 1 week." - This is incorrect because adrenergic decongestants provide immediate relief. C: "Continue the spray until nasal stuffiness has resolved." - This is incorrect as prolonged use can lead to worsening symptoms. D: "Avoid use of this spray if a fever develops." - This is incorrect as fever is not a contraindication for using adrenergic decongestants.
Question 5 of 5
What is characteristic of the intramuscular route of drug administration?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Oily solutions can be injected. In the intramuscular route of drug administration, oily solutions can be injected due to the higher vascularity of muscle tissues, allowing for slower absorption and prolonged drug release. Oily solutions facilitate the absorption of lipid-soluble drugs. This route is suitable for drugs that require sustained release or have poor water solubility. Choices A and C are incorrect because not only water solutions but also oily and other types of solutions can be injected intramuscularly. Choice D is incorrect as intramuscular administration generally results in faster onset of action compared to oral administration.